Police looking for pregnant Floyd County escapee

NEW ALBANY, IN (WAVE) – A pregnant Floyd County jail inmate is missing, but police say they have received a number of tips and leads regarding the woman's possible whereabouts.

Sheriff Darrell Mills said Bridgette Sims, 23, is eight months pregnant and was last seen wearing a hospital gown. Mills said Sims walked away from Floyd Memorial Hospital about 12:05 p.m. Sunday.

Mills said New Albany Police arrested Sims on Friday on a theft charge. She was accused of stealing from the Walmart in New Albany. Police said Sims had narcotics in her system when she was arrested. She was treated overnight at Floyd Memorial Hospital for the well-being of her unborn child and herself.

According to Mills, Sims was in an extra room with hospital staff who were conducting a medical test on her when she asked to use the bathroom. The bathroom had a second exit that police did not know about. He said Sims walked through the back exit that led to a different corridor.

"She was wearing her hospital gown, and she took off in a hurry," Floyd County Jail Commander Major Andrew Sands said.

Sheriff Mills said the officer who was watching Sims did nothing wrong and will not face disciplinary action.

Floyd Memorial Hospital released the following statement on Monday: "It is not uncommon for all law enforcement to seek medical care for an inmate or detainee at their local hospital. At all times the hospital staff work with law enforcement to ensure the safety of all patients. Floyd Memorial Hospital and Health Services is not at liberty to discuss in detail the events around the patient in question as it would be a violation of patient privacy."

Sheriff Mills said Sims needed medical attention and she walked away. There is a warrant issued for escape that also includes her theft charge.

Sims is not considered armed and dangerous. Deputies did a search of the area for several hours, but were unable to locate her.

Police think Sims may be with Chris Gentry. Gentry also goes by the alias Thomas Cook, investigators said.

"Yeah, our main concern at this point is the child that she's carrying," Sands said.

Sheriff Mills is asking anyone who might see Sims to call police at 812-948-5400.